7e ciel

7e Ciel (Septième ciel or stylized as 7ᵉ Ciel) (English: "Seventh Heaven") is the seventh studio album by French singer-songwriter Marc Lavoine, released on 6 September 1999 through RCA Records and BMG. Production was handled by Michel Cœuriot, with contributions from Pascal Obispo, Jean-Jacques Goldman, Richard Mortier, Alain Lanty, and Jean-Pierre Lousteau. Lavoine penned all the lyrics himself, showcasing his evolution from a romantic pop singer to a more introspective songwriter. The album presents a cohesive blend of pop, rock, and ballad styles, occasionally infused with Caribbean rhythms. The lyrical themes delve into emotional intimacy, personal reflection, and the nuances of love, exploring its complexities, solitude, and the passage of time.

Upon its release, 7e ciel achieved moderate commercial success in France, reaching number 57 on the French Albums Chart and staying there for four weeks. The album's performance was largely concentrated in its domestic market, with limited international impact. Critically, it received generally positive reviews, with praise for Marc Lavoine's introspective songwriting and artistic maturity. Commentators noted his transition from a romantic pop figure to a more thoughtful and refined lyricist, particularly highlighting that he penned all twelve tracks himself. As of September 2016, 7e ciel has sold a total of 70,000 copies.

Three singles were released to promote the album: "Les tournesols," "Fais semblant," and "J'écris des chansons." The lead single "Les tournesols", was released on 30 August 1999. Despite not breaking into the Top 50, it peaked at number 62 on the French Singles Chart (SNEP), marking a notable entry in Lavoine's discography. The second single, "Fais semblant," did not chart, reflecting a more subdued commercial reception. "J'écris des chansons," released as the third single, similarly struggled to make a significant commercial impact, highlighting the album's mixed overall performance. However, both singles received airplay in 2001, as apart of his compilation album, C'est ça Lavoine (2001).